Table of Contents
Anantalwar Garden: Blossoming Devotion Amidst Tirumala
In the heart of Tirumala, Andhra Pradesh, India, lies the enchanting Anantalwar Garden, a verdant oasis that resonates with devotion. The garden’s name pays homage to Anantalwar, a dedicated disciple of Lord Venkateswara, whose devotion was so profound that it continues to inspire. Let’s delve into the intriguing story, historical significance, and the profound connection between the garden and the revered Tirumala Venkateswara Temple.
A Disciple’s Dedication: Anantalwar’s Legacy
Anantalwar, a devoted soul to Lord Venkateswara, brings a unique hue to devotion’s tapestry. As a cherished disciple of Bhagavad Ramanuja, he embarked on a journey of service, offering floral tributes to the Lord. His commitment was such that he held his preceptor in higher reverence than the Lord himself. The garden’s very existence commemorates his unwavering devotion and service.
Where Devotion Blooms: Anantalwar Garden’s Essence
Gracefully adorning the path of Maha Pradakshinam, southwest of the main temple, the Anantalwar Garden unfolds its natural splendor. Amidst its lush landscape rests Anantalwar’s burial ground, a symbol of devotion. A captivating revelation is that even today, Malayappa Swami graces the garden with his presence twice annually, blessing Anantalwar. Pilgrims who visit the garden step into a realm where divine encounters between the devotee and the Lord transpired.
Historical Tapestry: Tirumala Venkateswara Temple
The pages of history unveil the venerable Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, dating back to ages long past. This temple pays homage to Lord Venkateswara, an embodiment of Lord Vishnu, believed to have manifested to alleviate the tribulations of Kali Yuga. Perched at a lofty 853 meters on Tirumala Hills, this temple resonates with the elegance of South Indian Tamil Architectural Style.
Legacy of Generosity: Endowments and Dynasties
History’s tapestry is woven with a legacy of endowments. The earliest recorded endowment traces back to 966 CE, courtesy of Pallava queen Samavai. Her offerings included jewels and parcels of land, earmarked for the temple’s festal celebrations. Across eras, dynasties such as the Pallavas, Cholas, and Vijayanagara Empire enriched the temple’s grandeur. Vijayanagara Emperor Krishnadevaraya’s contribution in 1517 gilded the Ananda Nilayam’s inner shrine. Post the Vijayanagara Empire’s era, the Kingdom of Mysore and Gadwal Samsthanam leaders adorned the temple with ornaments, a testament to their devotion.
Ramanujacharya’s Reverberation: Legacy of a Sage
Ramanujacharya’s indelible influence graces Tirupati. During three visits, he left a lasting imprint. His profound understanding of the Ramayana blossomed during a year spent with his uncle, Tirumalai Nambi. A dispute between Saivites and Vaishnavites regarding the temple’s image drew him for his second visit. In his last visit, at the age of 102, he installed the image of Govindaraja, shaping the town of Tirupati. Ramanujacharya meticulously aligned temple rituals with Vaikanasa Agama tradition and introduced Naalayira Divya Prabandham’s recitation. The Tirupati Jeeyar Mutt’s establishment in 1119AD, in consultation with Tirumalai Anantalwar, institutionalized service to the Lord and supervised temple rituals.
Temple’s Embrace: Timings and Access
The temple’s portals open at 6:00 AM and close at 9:00 PM every day. Positioned along the Maha Pradakshinam road, southwest from the main temple, Anantalwar Garden beckons. Accessible via taxi or auto-rickshaw from any corner of Tirupati city, it invites the devout to its embrace.
A Calendar of Devotion: Festivals Galore
Tirumala Venkateswara Temple resonates with festive fervor year-round. Brahmotsavam, Vaikunta Ekadasi, Rathasapthami, Ugadi Asthanam, Adhyayanotsavam, Pavitrotsavam, and Pushpayagam paint a vibrant canvas of devotion. The nine-day extravaganza of Brahmotsavam in September-October stands as a resplendent celebration.
In Conclusion: Blossoming Devotion’s Canvas
Anantalwar Garden is more than a lush expanse; it’s a canvas where devotion’s hues unfold. Honoring Anantalwar’s devotion, the garden draws pilgrims. Ananthalwar Garden is a sacred place of great spiritual importance. It is a must-visit for anyone interested in Vaishnavism or Hindu culture. The garden is also a popular tourist destination, and it is a beautiful place to spend a few hours.
